Introducing a novel lightweight cement-based (gem-tech) material for structural applications

This paper will review a maiden research on the GEM-TECH material that established the optimum mix for the material for the best strength to weight ratio and also examine the proposed procedures that is being followed in an ongoing research that would examine the mechanical and structural behaviour of the material when used in structural sections as replacement for conventional concrete. In an ongoing research, several samples of the GEM-TECH material have been prepared and expected to be air cured and tested for the various mechanical and durability properties after 56 days. However some results from the tests on mechanical properties after 28 days had shown good compressive strength values for a lightweight material for that age compared to other forms of foamed concrete. A maiden research to the material had also seen the material attain a compressive strength of up to 27Mpa for a density of about 1800kg/m3.